Reef Closures:

Fishing within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park,is regulated by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA).

2019 Dates for Reef Closures:

25th October – 29th October
24th November – 28th November

Why do we have closed seasons?

The Reef closed seasons prevent people from fishing at certain times of the year to protect fish species at vulnerable times in their life cycle (spawning season). Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol District Manager Tony Loader said the two five-day closures coincided with the new moon when key coral reef fish species aggregate to spawn.

Closed seasons are important to allow stocks to replenish to ensure there are sustainable numbers of fish for current and future generations of Queenslanders to enjoy. October and November have been shown scientifically to be the most effective months for closures to protect coral reef fin fish. The closure dates coincide with the new moon when coral reef fin fish species such as emperors, cods, groupers, coral trout and tropical snapper aggregate to spawn.

During the Reef Closures, we are still available for Sole Private Charters to fish non coral reef fin fish such as light tackle game fishing (Black Marlin, Tuna, Spanish Mackerel).

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